By Mayen Etim, Kaduna
Former federal minister and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Jerry Gana, has declared that Nigeria’s persistent challenges stem from a failure of leadership.
Speaking at the 2025 reunion of the Christian Elders Forum of Northern States (NOSCEF), Kaduna State Chapter, themed “Leading from the Front: The Role of Christian Elders,” Gana emphasized that leadership is pivotal to national development.
In his lecture, “Role of Godly Leadership in Nation-Building,” he stated, “Leadership is not merely a position but the profound responsibility to inspire, direct, and sustain the collective will of the people toward progress and development.”
He highlighted that effective leadership provides vision and passion, noting, “Leadership involves leading others in a passionate pursuit of a clear vision of what they wish to achieve, and it is such vision that ignites passion, inspiring followers to act.”
Gana stressed that leaders must uphold integrity and combat corruption, adding, “Sin destroys, but righteousness builds up the structures and systems of society.”
If we want Nigeria to move forward, we must ensure we raise leaders who will provide qualitative leadership at local, state, and national levels
He urged churches and elders nationwide to intentionally raise leaders with character, competence, courage, and integrity, saying, “If we want Nigeria to move forward, we must ensure we raise leaders who will provide qualitative leadership at local, state, and national levels.”
In his address, “Tackling Insecurity, Which Way?” the President of HEKAN Church Nigeria, Rev. Amos G. Kiri, described insecurity as “a national tragedy,” citing terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and ethno-religious violence. “Highways are unsafe, rural communities are displaced, and fear dominates daily life,” he said.
Rev. Kiri, however, called for hope, drawing on biblical examples. “Peace is not the absence of war but the presence of justice, healing, and human dignity. Let us lead from the front, praying, speaking truth, building peace, and demanding justice. If we stand together, Nigeria can be safer, our communities stronger, and the Church a light in darkness.”
Earlier, NOSCEF Kaduna Chairman, Elder Asandu Garba, highlighted the forum’s achievements, including hosting a national congress, organizing prayer summits, advocacy campaigns, and distributing palliatives to 23 Local Government Areas in the state.
He noted challenges such as limited resources and lack of office space.
The event also honored four Christian elders—Gen. Zamani Lekwot (rtd), Gen. Yunana Nom (rtd), Evangelist Matthew Owojaiye, and Engineer Dr. Yusuf Iliya—for their contributions to the Church in Northern Nigeria.
